Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice of Anesthesiologists Regarding Perioperative Neurocognitive Dysfunction: A Cross‐Sectional Study

This study assessed anesthesiologists’ knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) regarding perioperative neurocognitive dysfunction (PND). This multicenter, cross‐sectional study was conducted among anesthesiologists in mainland China from February 23, 2024, to March 23, 2024. Self‐administered questionnaires were used to collect demographic information and assess KAP scores. Finally, 594 nonproblematic questionnaires were included. Among the respondents, 311 (52.36%) were male, and 172 (28.96%) had received training related to PND. The mean scores for the KAP dimensions were 8.98 ± 2.32 (range: 0–13), 35.53 ± 3.00 (range: 8–40), and 28.49 ± 6.70 (range: 8–40), respectively. According to multivariable logistic regression analysis, higher knowledge scores (odds ratio [OR] = 1.099, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.012–1.194, p = 0.025), higher attitude scores (OR = 1.112, 95% CI: 1.043–1.188, p = 0.001), and participation in PND‐related training (OR = 2.876, 95% CI: 1.973–4.207, p < 0.001) were associated with proactive practice. Path analysis revealed that knowledge was associated with attitude ( β = 0.31, p < 0.001) and practice ( β = 0.52, p < 0.001) and that attitude was associated with practice ( β = 0.29, p = 0.002). Anesthesiologists in mainland China demonstrate limited knowledge but a positive attitude and a proactive approach to PND. Targeted educational interventions are recommended to improve anesthesiologists’ understanding and management of PND, enhancing perioperative care and patient outcomes.